Ilike Liveaboard, Indonesia

The Ilike liveaboard Indonesia is a traditional phinisi schooner built in Sulawesi in 2010. Crafted from ironwood and teak, the vessel carries 16 guests and offers itineraries across the Indonesian archipelago. Trips include well-known diving regions such as Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea, Alor, Komodo, Triton Bay, Maluku, and the Forgotten Islands. Powered by twin 320 HP marine engines, the dive boat cruises at an average of 9–10 knots. Guests can expect a blend of Indonesian coral reefs, rich marine life, and remote destinations, while enjoying the comfort of modern facilities onboard.

Cabin Types

Seaview Suite

The Seaview Suite en-suite is positioned on the upper deck of the MV Ilike liveaboard Indonesia, offering wide windows that look directly over the ocean. The cabin layout allows flexibility, with either a large double bed or two separate twins depending on guest preference. The private bathroom is equipped with a sink, toilet, and unlimited hot-water shower. Extra storage and shelving make it easy to keep belongings organized during longer cruises. Natural light, ocean views, and easy access to outdoor areas make this suite one of the most sought-after options on board.

Suite

On the lower deck, the Suite cabin provides a comfortable setup for two guests. A fixed double bed is complemented by bedside lighting, storage, and wardrobe space. This cabin comes with a private bathroom featuring a hot-water shower, toilet, and sink. The design offers a quiet retreat close to the main indoor areas, combining practicality with privacy during longer Indonesia liveaboard diving trips.

Superior

Four Superior cabins with air conditioning are located on the lower deck. Each has a double bed below with a single bunk above, making them a good option for couples, friends, or small dive groups. Ensuite bathrooms are fitted with showers, sinks, and toilets. Plenty of shelving, wardrobe space, and charging outlets are included, giving divers room to store gear, clothes, and electronics securely. These cabins offer a versatile choice for those planning extended Raja Ampat diving cruises or Banda Sea liveaboard trips.

Standard

Two Standard cabins with private bathrooms are located near the engine room on the lower deck. They are equipped with a lower double bed and an upper single bunk, accommodating up to three guests. Each cabin features a private ensuite with shower, sink, and toilet. Though slightly smaller than other categories, these cabins are practical and functional, providing a good value option for divers.

Boat Interior

The MV Ilike liveaboard combines traditional phinisi craftsmanship with modern functionality. The spacious indoor saloon has an open kitchen, providing guests with a chance to see the chef prepare Indonesian and international cuisine. At the stern, a covered outdoor dining lounge offers protection from the wind while sailing and is often used for relaxed meals or conversations after diving. A sundeck with loungers and hammocks creates space for rest in between dives, while the observation deck sunsets are a highlight for many travelers. Social areas are designed to accommodate both quiet relaxation and group gatherings, ensuring comfort throughout the journey.

Dive Deck

The dive deck is among the most spacious on Indonesian liveaboards. Located at the bow, it provides divers with a comfortable setup area for preparing equipment and storing gear between dives.

Safety

Safety procedures are supported by a professional crew with experience operating in remote Indonesian waters. Training covers diver assistance, first aid, and careful handling of equipment. Dives are carried out in small groups, with a maximum of 4 divers per guide, enhancing both safety and personal attention.

Itinerary

The MV Ilike liveaboard offers diving cruises throughout Indonesia. Routes cover Raja Ampat diving cruises from Sorong, Alor scuba diving trips, Banda Sea liveaboard expeditions, Komodo dive safaris departing Labuan Bajo, and Forgotten Islands diving itineraries from Saumlaki. Special routes include Triton Bay liveaboard diving with sightings of pygmy seahorses and potential manta ray encounters, as well as Cenderawasih Bay whale sharks. The schedule ranges from 5-night voyages to extended 13-night cruises.

Cabins

All eight cabins come with private bathrooms, hot showers, and storage space for personal belongings. The Seaview Suite offers natural light and sea views, while the Superior and Standard cabins provide practical layouts for small groups or dive buddies.

Boat Specification

The vessel measures 32 meters in length and 8 meters in width. Built with an ironwood hull and teak body, it is equipped with twin engines and three generators, supported by a freshwater maker for long journeys.

Dive Facilities

Divers have access to a Nitrox membrane compressor, two tenders with 50 HP engines, and scuba gear rental in Indonesia including BCDs, regulators, dive computers, and wetsuits. Dive tenders with ladders allow comfortable water entry and exit.

Boat navigation & safety

The Ilike liveaboard Indonesia is powered by two engines and supported by three generators. Safety and navigation are ensured by a range of onboard systems, including VHF ship-to-tender radios for clear communication, fire-fighting systems, smoke detectors, and emergency oxygen. Life rafts and life jackets are available, providing reliable protection during longer crossings between remote Indonesian regions such as Triton Bay or the Forgotten Islands. The vessel’s robust build, combined with experienced crew and established protocols, enhances the confidence of guests traveling through these distant waters.

Food & Drinks

Meals combine Indonesian and international cuisine. Breakfasts include fresh fruit, cereals, juices, and cooked dishes. Lunches are served buffet-style, while chef-prepared dinners feature seafood, chicken, or beef, accompanied by vegetables and salads. Desserts are prepared daily. Outdoor dining is available at the stern, and vegetarian or vegan options can be arranged. Drinks include soft beverages, Nespresso coffee, and a selection of beer, wine, and spirits.

Onboard Facilities

Facilities on the MV Ilike liveaboard include a sundeck with loungers, hammocks, and shaded seating areas for relaxation. The indoor saloon provides additional space for reading or socializing, supported by a small onboard library and fish identification guides. Guests may also enjoy welcome cocktails, massage services, and a bar offering local beer, wine, and spirits. Laundry service and souvenir purchases, including Ilike-branded t-shirts, are available. Transfers from airports and hotels are arranged at embarkation points such as Sorong, Ambon, Saumlaki, or Labuan Bajo, simplifying logistics for travelers following the liveaboard’s schedule.

Photographer Facilities

Underwater camera facilities include a preparation and setup area, storage space, charging stations, and camera rinse tanks. The crew is experienced in handling camera equipment during transfers from the dive tenders to the dive sites